Stopping Sexual Stereotyping

Today we are going to continue our discussion on what makes a healthy relationship.

Turn to “Evaluating Relationships” on page 14.

After reading each story:

• What are the healthy elements of this relationship?

• Are there any unhealthy elements? What are they?

• Overall, would you say this was a healthy or unhealthy relationship?

Here’s some information that wasn’t included in the reading. Two of these relationships are heterosexual, and one—the

relationship between Drew and Chris—is a same-sex relationship.

The quality of a relationship is based on how people treat each other, not their sexual orientation. Gay and lesbian relationships

can be healthy or unhealthy, just as heterosexual relationships can be healthy or unhealthy.

Were you surprised that one of the scenarios you identified as being “healthy” was a same-sex relationship?

Why or why not?

Some of you may have been surprised because of stereotypes associated with same-sex

relationships.

What does “sexual stereotyping” mean?

Sexual Stereotyping

• Sexual stereotyping is judging people’s sexuality based on a limited perception of their appearance, beliefs or actions.

Why does sexual stereotyping occur?

Sexual Stereotyping

• Sexual stereotyping is caused by fear, ignorance or misunderstanding. It can be hurtful or harmful.

How can sexual stereotyping be harmful?

Like other types of stereotyping, sexual stereotyping is harmful because it isolates people who are different. It is disrespectful. Sexual stereotyping can lead to harassment and even violence.

These are not only wrong, but criminal.

What are some ways to help stop sexual stereotyping when you see it happening?

First, you have to recognize sexual stereotyping when it happens. Then you have to decide that

you are going to do something about it.

Challenging Sexual Stereotyping

• Point out facts.– It is not true that people can choose their sexual

orientation.• Ask for more information.– Why do you believe that?

• Listen and learn.– Be conscious of your own stereotyping and assumptions.

• Challenge assumptions.– Just because one person did that, doesn’t mean that all

girls/boys/gays do.

Remember these suggestions the next time you find yourself in a situation where sexual

stereotyping is going on.